Theofil “Theo” S. Kocian Sr., 92, passed away December 21, 2018 with family members close by. Theofil was born January 6, 1926 in Moulton, TX to the late Vincent Jim and Stella Koncaba Kocian. Theofil served his country and was enlisted in the United States Army from 1944-1946. Upon returning from WW II he met the love of his life, Sylvia Gajer Kocian, they were married for 69 years. In 1960 Theofil opened Kocian’s Texaco Service Station and owned and operated the station for over 40 years. After retiring from the service station, he enjoyed repairing lawnmowers. He was a member of the Our Lady of Victory Cathedral, Knights of Columbus, SPJST Lodge #32, Victoria County Czech Heritage Club, Victoria Czech Singers, Polka and Waltz Club, the American Legion and a member of the VFW. He loved being around his family and friends, spending time visiting, singing, dancing and playing dominos. Theo was always happy and had an infectious smile. He will be dearly missed by all.
Theofil is survived by his wife, Sylvia Gajer Kocian; daughter, Sandra G. Schmidt (Wesley Joel) of Victoria; sons, Theofil S. Kocian Jr. (Gail) of Hallettsville, Gary W. Kocian (Kelly) of Schroeder; sister, Adele Marburger of Chappel Hill; brother, David Kocian Sr. of Sheridan and his grandchildren, Calvin Schmidt, Kelsey Schmidt, Kevin Schmidt, Travis Kocian and Kimberly Kocian.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters Lalie Bartos and Lillie Dunn. Also two brothers Leo and Zefrin.
A rosary will be recited at 9:30 am at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Catholic Church on Thursday, December 27, 2018 with a funeral mass to immediately follow at 10 am. Burial with full military honors will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Following the burial a Celebration of his life will be held at The Cathedral Center located next to Our Lady of Victory.
Pallbearers will be grandsons Calvin Schmidt, Kevin Schmidt, Travis Kocian and nephews Joe Bartos, Robert Bartos & David Kocian Jr.
Honorary pallbearers are Theofil’s nephews, nieces, and granddaughters.
Memorial donations can be made to Hospice of South Texas.
Words of comfort may be shared at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
